An historic WWII Spitfire was the special guest at Southampton Airport today, delighting spectators with a fly-by before landing at 13.30.
The event, co-ordinated by ARAMARK (the food service company which operates the airport’s retail catering outlets) and Spitfire Ale (Shepherd Neame) took place to raise money and the profile of the RAF Benevolent Fund.
Airport officials arranged for the iconic aircraft to park within easy sight of the airside viewing gallery and cafe bar, in which ARAMARK offered a special sub roll and Spitfire Ale deal.
The aircraft, piloted by Alistair Kay, took to the skies again at 16.50.
Dean Benton, Director of Marketing and Communications for the RAF Benevolent Fund, said: "It's great to see the RAF Benevolent Fund given such prominence at Southampton Airport, the spiritual home of the legendary Spitfire. The fundraising partnership with both ARAMARK and Shepherd Neame is making a vital contribution towards our ability to help both past and present generations of RAF family members who have served their country so magnificently. The monies raised will in some way help to improve an individual or family's quality of life."
Jason Bendell, Regional Operations Manager at ARAMARK, commented: "We are delighted with the day's results, the Spitfire generated a huge amount of excitement amongst the passengers and staff - I think it is safe to say everyone thoroughly enjoyed the day! It is such a worthy cause and we hope to be able to arrange many more special events like this to support the Fund."
Southampton Airport is hallowed ground for Spitfire enthusiasts, being the site of its first test flight on 5th March 1936. The aircraft was designed by the legendary RJ Mitchell and built at the Supermarine factories in nearby Woolston.
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